Quote:
Originally Posted by -Greg72
I've been doing a LOT of reading on these message forums lately. I'm a lurker here mostly since I rarely have the expertise in the 2WD Chevy world to chime in with much helpful advice. 
I am doing some preliminary planning research to drop my '72 Burb and have a few random questions at this point:
1. Is there a version of the "Dropmember" that works with a BBC? I saw some talk about it in a few threads, but never saw a definitive answer.
2. Is there a solution to use the rack-and-pinion setup with something as heavy as a 'Burb and BBC setup? The Mustang and MustangII racks seem to be too light-duty to do it safely.
3. Does anyone use their vehicle for towing with an airbag setup and large diameter wheels/tires? The "look" is awesome, but I wonder if you can get those "steamroller" tires in a Load range "D" for safe towing, or if they'd overheat and burn up/blow out?? I need to tow around 7500Lbs from time to time.
4. How close to the ground can I get without cutting up the rear floor areas (or center tunnel)? Laying frame is not one of my objectives, though I'd certainly like a LOW stance on occasion. The Burb must remain practical and useable as a tow rig and people hauler....so there is a limit to what I'm willing to cut. Getting within a couple of inches from the ground would be fine with me....
5. Does anyone have some nice side profile shots of a 'Burb with the larger diameter tires that they could post? I like the look of some of the Porterbilt trucks with their 20s/22s...but I doubt that would ever work for towing. I'm thinking I may be in the 18s/20s-range or maybe even smaller diameters to be able to handle the heat (and load range) for towing. If people have photos and specific tire sizes used, that would help a lot.
Thanks!  There are a lot of amazing trucks here....and it's great to see the AirRide representatives talking in the forums and offering advice. |
Greg-
To answer the first two questions... The Dropmember and BBC combo is possible and being done. I am yet to do one in house, so there are currently no motor mounts or detailed instructions/pics for the procedure provided by me.
The MII and vehicle weight issue you are inquiring about is an important question. The MII rack and pinion I use, are supplied by Maval Manufacturing (Unisteer). It has been recommended to me, by them, that on a vehicle that has a front axle weight greater than 1800lbs. the MII rack is not recommended. If the front axle weight is near or at 1800lbs. a manual unit is recommended. I was also told that tongue weight or towing weight is not a factor, just front axle weight. With a BBC full of fluids and the burb itself the weight on the front axle will be approaching the limits. I would recommend weighing it to make sure.
From the description you've given, as far as the intended use and application, I really don't think a Dropmember will benefit your application. I would recommend an air suspension all around and spindles up front, and possibly a c-notch in the rear... depends on how much you are really going to be towing.